An answer to Sleep Apnea- CPAP and VPAP MASKS

Continuous Positive Airway Masks are the machines prescribed to treat a variety of sleeping disorders at home. Millions of people all over the world suffer from sleep apnea or other types of sleeping disorders and face problems in breathing while sleeping. Their windpipes actually get clogged up while in sleep or their develop pauses in breaths which could be mild, ending up in 5 minutes or may take 50 minutes to last(severe case). CPAP machines come as a solution to these people.

The CPAP masks are fitted over nose and around nasal region to provide a continuous stream of oxygen to the patient so that he continues to breathe properly even if there are hindrances in the airway. These are designed in such a way that the patient can wear them all night long without any discomfort due to a poor fit. The machine keeps working silently so that the person wearing it is not troubled due to its humming sound. The air is pumped in at such a pressure so that the airway does not get blocked even while snoring.

The important considerations to keep in mind before selecting such types of masks is that it should provide a secure leak free seal and be a proper fit on the face of the person so as to avoid any sort of discomfort while wearing it. The small and compact ones are easier for the people to carry.

There are many types of pap masks available in the market such as nasal type, oral masks, full-face type and pillow systems. The nasal types are a great option for those people who breathe primarily through their noses. The oral masks are for those who breathe through their mouth while sleeping. The full-face masks are such that both nasal and oral breathers can use. These are but a bit larger than the nasal and the oral masks. Mask pillow systems are the lightest and quietest of all as they seal against each nostril.

There is yet other type of PAP machine called the VPAP machine or Variable Positive Air Pressure masks which are recommended in more severe cases of sleep apnea. This is prescribed to people who cannot breathe by themselves completely. It supports the person’s breathing system in two ways- firstly it forces the air into the lungs and secondly it helps to hold the lungs open so that air sacs remain open. These are full faced masks strapped to the head and face and are quite safe to use.